Communiqué Issued At The First Convention Of Inc-Usa Held At The Hyatt Regency Hotel, Miami, Florida

Communiqué Issued At The Inaugural Convention Of The Itsekiri National Congress Usa (Inc-Usa) Held At The Hyatt Regency Hotel, Miami, Florida, From Friday, August 29th To Sunday, August 31st, 2025

The Itsekiri National Congress USA (INC-USA) successfully hosted its Inaugural Convention at the prestigious Hyatt Regency Hotel, Miami, from Friday, August 29th to Sunday, August 31st, 2025, with over 150 participants in attendance.

The three-day event showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Itsekiri Nation and reflected the collective resolve of Itsekiris in the diaspora to contribute meaningfully to the development of Iwere Land.

Day One – Friday, August 29th, 2025

The convention commenced with a warm welcome address by the National President, Mr. Otse Amorighoye, who expressed excitement at the turnout and promised an impactful and memorable convention filled with cultural displays and thought-provoking discussions.

“10-year-old Oritsejolomisan Abigail Wilson performing the Itsekiri anthem.”

The evening featured a vibrant cultural presentation, including a live demonstration of Itsekiri royal attire by Mrs. Ete Sagay, and captivating performances of Itsekiri traditional music and dance. The evening was anchored by Mr. Gbubemi Onemopke and co-hosted by Mr. Mogbeyi Otsima, setting an energetic tone for the weekend.

Day Two – Saturday, August 30th, 2025

The second day opened at 9:00 AM (EST) with prayers led by Mr. Dickson Kuyastemi, followed by the rendition of the Itsekiri National Anthem, “E Ar? Olorire,” performed by Mrs. Alero Pirah, and the U.S. National Anthem by Miss Tsolaye Dorsu.

“INC-USA President Otse Amorighoye delivering the welcome address.”

In his opening remarks, Mr. Otse Amorighoye lauded the Oma Iwere Association of Florida, hosts of the convention, for their dedication and hospitality. He emphasized unity, purpose, and collective responsibility, noting that “an organization is not a banner or a bank account, but the people who constitute it.”

Keynote Presentations

1. Prof. Jonathan Tsetimi (Professor of Industrial Mathematics, Delta State University, Abraka) delivered a paper on “The Transformative Role of Education, Technology, and Artificial Intelligence in Strengthening and Elevating Iwere Land.” He underscored the importance of embracing innovation and AI to accelerate socio-economic development in Itsekiri communities.

“Mrs Ete Sagay demonstrates traditional Itsekiri royal attire.”

2. Engr. Atse Onuwaje (CEO, Fortech LLC, USA) spoke on “Bridging Excellence Across Continents: A Human and Material Resource Perspective.” He highlighted the concept of critical mass as a means to project Itsekiri excellence globally, stressing the role of grassroots education and mentorship.

3. Dr. Bemigho Ayo Odonmeta (Consultant Nephrologist and Medical Director, Lana Hospital, Sapele) presented on “A Healthier Itsekiri Nation: Modern Care for Every Family, Everywhere.” He called for partnerships between government, communities, NGOs, and individuals to ensure quality healthcare access for all Itsekiri people, including those in remote riverine areas.

Professor Tsetemi

Breakout Discussion Sessions

Following lunch, participants broke into three thematic discussion groups:

Business and Technology:

Led by Mr. Fiogho Tonwe, the group proposed leveraging technology to drive development in Itsekiri communities through initiatives such as solar-powered Starlink installations, e-commerce for local products, and housing renewal projects in riverine settlements.

Engineer Onuwaje

Education:

Facilitated by Mr. Emmanuel Pirah, the group examined poor school attendance and teacher shortages in rural communities. They advocated curriculum reform, practical learning approaches, and the use of AI-based learning tools. Itsekiris in the diaspora were encouraged to mentor students during home visits.

Health:

Led by Dr. Jackie Ejuwa, discussions centered on telehealth opportunities and challenges, including connectivity, language barriers, and healthcare mistrust. Recommendations included community awareness programs, improved digital access, and collaboration with mobile service providers to extend telehealth to remote communities.

Dr. Odonmeta

In conclusion, Mr. Otse Amorighoye announced that INC-USA’s pilot project would focus on providing reliable healthcare services to every Itsekiri family, regardless of location. The session closed with prayers led by Prof. Eyisan Omagbemi, a Patron of the organization.

The gala night was a grand celebration of Itsekiri culture and unity. The red-carpet event featured dignitaries and guests elegantly dressed in traditional regalia. The highlight of the evening was a performance by 10-year-old Oritsejolomisan Abigail Wilson, who beautifully rendered the Itsekiri National Anthem, followed by the electrifying Omoko Dance. The night climaxed with an energetic performance by Itsekiri-born Nigerian music star Oritsefemi, who thrilled the audience with hits such as “Double Wahala,” “Gbubemi,” and “Mercies of the Lord.”

“Delegates engage in Business, Education and Health group discussions.”

Day Three – Sunday, August 31st, 2025

The final day featured a luxury yacht cruise on Biscayne Bay, followed by a sightseeing visit to South Beach, Florida. The convention concluded with a family picnic at Amelia Earhart Park, where attendees enjoyed assorted traditional and continental cuisines, networking, and fellowship.

“Guests in elegant Itsekiri attire at the red-carpet cultural gala.”

The convention reaffirmed the commitment of Itsekiri sons and daughters in the diaspora to promoting unity, education, health, technology, and cultural preservation within the Itsekiri Nation. Members pledged continued collaboration to advance the collective prosperity and global visibility of Iwere Land.

“Itsekiri artist Oritsefemi thrilling guests with a live set.”

Signed:

Mr. Osuyi Uyinmwen

Publicity Secretary,

Itsekiri National Congress USA (INC-USA)

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